Hydration for Tinley Park IL Residents With
Back Pain

Hydration in Tinley Park IL is essential for overall health, but it’s also important for back health. Our bodies are more than 70% water. Our blood is largely comprised of water as are other important bodily fluids such as within the lymphatic system. AND, our joints also have fluid filled membranes meant to lubricate and allow our arms, legs and torso to move smoothly. Our spinal column is loaded with fluid filled cushions called discs located between each vertebral bone.

The jelly-like intervertebral discs are fluid filled. The discs serve as cushions and shock absorbers to protect the vertebrae and allow proper motion. If you are dehydrated, these discs can become depleted and are therefore unable to perform optimally. This is especially true if you already have a bulged disc or other degenerative problems in the spine.

Why you Need to Hydrate in Tinley Park IL

Many people wait until they are thirsty to rehydrate, and they tend to reach for beverages that may seem to quench their thirst, but do little to rehydrate the body. Thirst is the body’s way of telling you that you are already dehydrated. As well, this sensation lessens as we age, meaning your fluid levels may be much lower when you actually experience thirst.

Generally speaking, you should drink one milliliter of water per calorie consumed. This amounts to two liters per day for an average 2000 calorie per day diet. How much is two liters? Consider the size of a common two liter bottle of soda or a little more than half a gallon.

If you physically exert yourself through exercise or other activities such as a physically demanding job, make sure you drink at least another half a liter for every hour you’ve worked your body and sweat. You’ll need to do the same if you live in a hot climate and are exposed to the heat.

And what to drink? WATER. Energy drinks, sodas and many juices contain more harm than good and do little to hydrate your body. In fact, caffeine acts as a diuretic which will force your body to eliminate more fluid. If you need to flavor your water, try using fresh fruits or vegetables such as lemon and cucumber slices.

Feel free to call us at Chiropractic Wellness of Tinley Park today to schedule an appointment for better back health and total wellness!